Big Bangs

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One of our favorite looks-blunt bangs a la Birkin-is no longer on the fringe and suddenly has blown up in a big way. Certainly, this isn't the look's first time at the rodeo. Throughout history, brow-grazing bangs have enjoyed bouts of popularity via such style icons as Louise Brooks, Marianne Faithful, and Elvira Hancock (Michelle Pfeiffer's character in Scarface)-even Cleopatra was a part of this fringe element! Today, we salute the recent revival of bold bangs and present a few excellent examples of how to wear this look.

Before we delve too deeply into our big bang theories, we'd like to point out that the recent crop is much more wearable than the extreme, hipster, bowl-cut bangs that Rihanna, Gwen Stefani, Nelly Furtado all sported in late 2006/early 2007. Kate Moss, Jessica Alba, and Nicole Richie cut fringe that's a little long (just skims the eye) and a little wispy, so they can easily go from straight-down to sideswept for a quick change. We also adore a heavier hairstyle. Keira Knightley, Katie Holmes, and Liv Tyler all recently committed to thick, slightly shorter, statement bangs that are a bit more sophisticated.

A couple of tips before we sign off: If you're on the verge of snipping, do consider your face-shape and hair texture. Generally, blunt bangs are best on oval and round faces, and are most easily accomplished on straight hair. Unless you're dedicated to drying your bangs (cough: masochist), we do not suggest that readers with curly locks try this style. Sorry Carrie Bradshaw, this look is not for you!